Pa. closing 2 state prisons in cost-cutting move

HARRISBURG — The Department of Corrections says it will close two state prisons in western Pennsylvania and open a new one in a move to cut costs.

Corrections Secretary John Wetzel made the announcement Wednesday and says the move will mean savings of $23 million.

Benner State Prison in Centre County can house 2,000 inmates, but it’s been vacant since being finished last year. Greensburg State Prison in Westmoreland County and Cresson State Prison in Cambria County will be closed.

State Sen. Kim Ward of Westmoreland County wants hearings on the matter to learn how the state came to its decision.

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The state counts more than 51,000 inmates, including about 2,400 in county jails or community correctional centers.